Mikel Arteta is anxious as Arsenal readies itself for a Champions League clash with Olympiacos and still has to consider the ongoing uncertainty of returning winger Noni Madueke, although he will be boosted by returning key players.
Anxious Wait for Injury “Clarity”
Arsenal’s anxious injury concern relates to Noni Madueke. The England international suffered a knee injury in the 1-1 draw in the match against Manchester City. He was originally not expected to be back for six- to eight-weeks. Manager Mikel Arteta has said they are still waiting for a solid prognosis.
“He hasn’t had a [second] scan yet,” Arteta revealed. “He needs to wait a little bit more still with the brace and everything. He’s still in a stage where everything is super protective and once he comes out of that and has the scan we will have more clarity about it”. Madueke is working hard on his recovery and watched the late win over Newcastle United from his home. The long-term injury absentees namely Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both with knee injuries as well as Piero Hincapie are also unavailable.
Boost as Odegaard Returns
There is also a more positive news as well. Gunners captain Martin Ødegaard celebrated a successful return from his shoulder issue so he could contribute in stoppage time to a dramatic 2-1 win at Newcastle, coming off the bench to provide two beautiful assists. Ødegaard is now in line to start, against Olympiacos.
Predicted Lineup for European Clash
With two games in three days Arteta will be planning squad rotation. This will be the Gunners’ first home fixture in the Champions League since last season’s semi-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
After a mature 2-0 win away at Athletic Club, the Gunners will be looking to build on a great start to their European campaign.
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